Side-by-Side Composite Pressure Vessel Assembly for Space Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pressure vessels, such as spherical and cylindrical designs, inefficiently utilize space and are challenging to manufacture due to complex shapes and high internal pressures, making them costly and difficult to produce reliably and lightweight.
Innovation Solution
A composite pressure vessel assembly comprising aligned liners with mid-layers and an outer layer, using a hybrid of continuous and non-continuous fibers and resins, with optimized junctions for stress distribution, allowing for efficient space utilization and lightweight construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional spherical or cylindrical pressure vessels are used, then stress distribution is even, but space utilization efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure vessel is divided into multiple modular units (first vessel, second vessel, third vessel) that can be arranged in different configurations. Each module has standardized connectors allowing flexible assembly to match various space requirements while maintaining structural integrity and stress distribution characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional 3D spherical/cylindrical shapes to a modular assembly approach where multiple smaller vessels are arranged in spatial configurations (side-by-side, stacked, or integrated arrangements) to achieve better space utilization in available volumes.
2Volume of moving object
If non-spherical/cylindrical pressure vessels are designed to support high internal pressure, then space utilization improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex pressure vessel design is segmented into multiple standardized modular units with simpler individual geometries. Each module can be manufactured using conventional processes, and the overall complex shape is achieved through assembly of these modules rather than manufacturing a single complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple simpler pressure vessel modules are combined through connectors and support structures to create the final complex-shaped pressure vessel assembly, achieving both space efficiency and manufacturability.
3Volume of moving object
If high conformability pressure vessels are manufactured, then space utilization improves, but manufacturing reliability and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into standardized steps for each modular unit (forming, reinforcing, connecting). This standardization improves manufacturing reliability by reducing variability and enabling quality control at each stage, while the modular nature allows parallel production to reduce costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses standardized parameters and tolerances for modular components that balance conformability requirements with manufacturing capabilities. By defining appropriate parameter ranges for module geometry, wall thickness, and connector specifications, the design achieves high space utilization while remaining manufacturable with conventional processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite pressure vessel assembly includes a first and second vessels aligned side-by-side. Each vessel has a liner defining respective chambers. First and second mid-layers of the assembly cover the respective liners with portions of the respective mid-layers being in contact with one-another. An outer layer of the vessel assembly is in contact with and substantially envelops both mid-layers except for the mid-layer portions.